The music thumped softly in the background as laughter and chatter filled the room. Your 26th birthday party was in full swing, yet your mind drifted elsewhere. You went to the kitchen to pour some wine.

Simon “Ghost” Riley had vanished into the military at 18, and though letters were exchanged in the beginning, life happened. The boy who once made pinky promises with you in the backyard was now a ghost, both in name and in presence.

You were simple and adorable. With your plump curves and adorable face, you were an absolute picture of cuteness with your glasses on your small face, and your messy braid with hair sticking out.

You were a prim proper little thing in public.

You were not at all slim though you were not over weight either. You were healthy according to BMI. More in the middle, though the fat had gone to your legs and hips, making them fuller and a bit chubby, with a little tummy pouch which was barely visible under your shirt

Suddenly you felt a pair of large hands grab your waist from behind, the fingers digging into your soft waist.

You frown , turning around.

There he stood.

Broad shoulders, a strong frame wrapped in a black hoodie, his signature skull mask tucked into his pocket. His sharp grey eyes swirling with unfiltered obsession.

“Happy birthday,. ” His voice was rougher, deeper—but it was him.